Exploring the Details of Apple's Second-Generation AR/VR Gadget
Apple's recent WWDC event passed without a peep about their anticipated AR/VR headset, yet whisperings and rumors about this highly anticipated device continue to flood the scene. Contrary to initial reports claiming Sony supplied the main micro OLED panel for Apple's first-generation mixed reality headset, a new report from reliable South Korean source The Elec suggests that LG Display will aim to take over as the prominent supplier for the primary micro OLED display in Apple's second-gen headset.
LG has its sights set on dislodging Sony as a primary supplier, considering Sony's prominent presence in the VR space with its PlayStation VR headset. In pursuit of this goal, LG plans to utilize equipment from Sunic System to manufacture micro OLED panels for Apple's second-gen headset.
Micro OLED is a next-generation screen technology that mounts an OLED layer on a silicon substrate, allowing for thinner panels, reduced power consumption, and outstanding picture quality. As it's poised to become the preferred technology for upcoming mixed reality headsets, incorporating it into these devices, coupled with advanced features like M-series processors and multiple high-resolution displays, will undoubtedly cost a pretty penny.
The Eye-Watering Price Tag:The elevated costs associated with these advanced features are estimated to bump up the price of Apple’s AR/VR headset to a staggering $3,000 – a significant hike from the Oculus Quest 2, the current market leader.
The Waiting Game:Though we were anticipating some AR/VR mention at Apple's WWDC event, it remained conspicuously absent. Regardless, all signs point to a reveal towards the end of 2022 or the beginning of 2023, with a release schedule slotted for mid to late in the following year.
Should you prefer to bide your time and wait for the second-gen product, Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo predicted that it would make its debut in the second half of 2024, boasting a lighter design, enhanced battery life, and faster performance (possibly accompanied by a more affordable price tag).
[1] - MacRumors, Apple's WWDC 2022: Live Blog, (2022), https://www.macrumors.com/2022/06/6/wwdc-2022-live-blog/[2] - Engadget, LG Display is preparing micro-OLED panels for a future high-resolution mixed reality headset, (2021), https://www.engadget.com/lg-display-micro-oled-headset-140437302.html[3] - TechRadar, LG won't use WOLED technology for its foldable display, according to report, (2021), https://www.techradar.com/news/lg-wont-use-woled-technology-for-its-foldable-display-according-to-report/
- With the expected release of Apple's second-generation AR/VR headset, technology enthusiasts are anticipating the addition of advanced features like M-series processors and multiple high-resolution OLED displays.
- The rumors of LG taking over as the primary micro OLED display supplier for Apple's second-gen headset suggest a future where OLED technology dominates the mixed reality market.
- As tech giants like Apple invest in future-proofing their products with next-generation screen technology like micro OLED, the price points for these headsets are likely to soar, setting a new standard for premium hardware.
- The immersive experience offered by OLED headsets, coupled with the anticipation of future advancements, could make headsets like Apple's second-gen AR/VR headset a desirable tech acquisition, despite the hefty price tag.
